Why Inxs Turned Down Working With Rick Rubin

April 2, 2025

It was a crisp autumn afternoon in 1994 when the members of INXS gathered in a small studio in Sydney, Australia. The air was thick with excitement, yet an undercurrent of tension buzzed among them. They had just received a call from Rick Rubin, the legendary music producer known for his work with giants like the Beastie Boys and Johnny Cash. This was a golden opportunity, a ticket to take their sound to new heights. Yet, as they sat together, sipping their coffee and discussing the details, a sense of unease crept into their conversation.

The band had been through a lot. They had spent years refining their sound, pouring their hearts into albums like “Kick” and “X.” They had tasted the sweetness of success, but they were also painfully aware that their identity was at stake. They didn’t want to surrender their creative vision to someone whose approach was so radically different from their own. While Rubin’s reputation preceded him, many in the band feared that working with him might mean losing the very essence of what made INXS, well, INXS. They believed in their music, in the stories and emotions they crafted, and they wanted to remain true to themselves.

As they mulled over their decision, lead singer Michael Hutchence spoke up, his voice steady but filled with emotion. “We’ve always taken risks, but this feels too big. We can’t just let someone else define who we are.” His words resonated deeply with the group. They reminisced about their journey, the sweat and dedication that had brought them to this point. They recalled the electric connection with their fans and the way their music had inspired countless people. Choosing their own path seemed more important than the chance to work with a renowned producer.

After hours of discussion, the band made a unanimous decision. They would decline Rick Rubin’s offer. The choice wasn’t easy, but they felt a sense of relief wash over them. They decided to continue their journey on their own terms. They put their focus into creating a new album, drawing from their experiences and the challenges they faced as a band. The decision ultimately led them to produce “Full Moon, Dirty Hearts,” which, while not as commercially successful as some of their previous work, stood as a testament to their resilience and commitment to authenticity.

Looking back, the choice to turn down working with Rick Rubin didn’t stall their career; rather, it allowed them to forge their unique path in the music world. They explored new sounds, collaborated with different artists, and most importantly, remained true to themselves. Their refusal to compromise their vision eventually earned them respect not only as musicians but as artists who stood for their beliefs.

INXS’s journey is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the most significant risks involve standing firm in your convictions. They faced the daunting decision with courage, and that courage became a part of their story. It inspired others to follow their hearts, no matter how tempting the easier path might seem. In every note they played and every performance they gave, the spirit of INXS lived on, proving that authenticity always shines the brightest, even in the face of overwhelming temptation.